Locker on Chevy Express 3500?

[VashonVW]

Hey all. I bought a high top 2006 Chevy Express 3500 a couple months back on EP and I'm looking for some increased traction.

My main issue is that my driveway is crazy steep (paved with concrete) and I've yet to even try to take my van down it. Sometimes we'll have folks drive their work vans down it and while none have gotten totally stuck, it takes a bunch of tire spinning/expletives/time to for them to find the traction to get up the grade. I generally drive my jeep up it without even engaging the 4wd, but bigger vehicles have a hard time. I drove my VW bus down and got stuck and had to get towed out.

I'd love to be able to drive my van down and park it near my house so I'm thinking about two options:

1. Would it be possible (and practical) to get some sort of locker installed on my (open) rear diff to aid in traction? I think a selectable locker would be ideal, but not sure if that's totally possible or what the total cost would be. And would it be enough of a boost in traction to get my van up the slope smoothly?

2. A full 4x4 conversion. This is the dream but cost is the deterrent. I know this would be ideal, just not sure if I can make it happen in the next couple years. Hoping that maybe I could just get a locker installed and be good to go.

Thanks for any feedback or recommendations!

 

[rex_1_mn]

For what it's worth I put a Detroit Trutrac in my old 1990 3/4 ton chevy and run it all winter long. Love the differential. There when you need it and not even noticeable when you don't. Pretty affordable too.

 

[reds12t]

Installing a locker into your open carrier might be an option, but many Express vans had fairly unique rear axles that don't have readily available lockers. I personally don't like automatic lockers, especially drop in style, for street vehicles. I find the driving dynamics and noise to be too big of a trade off. Some people don't mind them, but I think a good limited slip would be your best option. And, depending on which rear axle you have, it may be the only option. I sent you a PM about this too.

 

[djbonsu]

I say go with a limited slip like the True trac. I have that and like the way it operates, not noisy, seamless engagement/dis-engagement and very low maintenance (no clutches)

 

[VashonVW]

Thanks all. Looks like that True trac is the way to go if it works with my axel. Maybe someday a big pile of money will fall on me and I'll spring for that Clydesdale 4x4 conversion as well.

 

[86cj]

Your van either has a Dana 60 or a GM 14 bolt with a 10.5" or 9.5" ring gear, it could be a semi or full float axle so it is hard say what to put in it. Post some axle pics and we can help, diff cover and wheel hub.....

The factory GOV-Lock does work and is a locker when engaged, I have had a couple for decades and have not broke them. If I was buying a new locker I would not pick one as first choice though, lots of better options out there, unless the price was right...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTGZOJQQBeE

 

[mezmochill]

Keep the moss off the driveway!